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Monrovia Police: Crawling Drunk; Drugs and Alcohol; Shooting Window With BB Gun; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 25-28. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
February 25 at 7:53 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed near the intersection of Duarte and Myrtle. The officer tried to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle, but the driver continued for several blocks before eventually coming to a stop. While the officer was speaking with the driver, he could smell the odor of alcohol. The driver was intoxicated and had difficulty standing. He was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was and arrested and held for sobering.

Possession of a Controlled Substance/Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
February 26 at 12:05 a.m., officers responded to the report of a suspicious person at a business in the 2100 block of South Myrtle. When they arrived, several subjects were located inside the gates of the business. They were all detained for investigation. One subject had methamphetamine on them, along with a drug smoking pipe. The subject had no identification and was subsequently arrested in order to identify them for the citation to appear in court. A second subject was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and also having no identification.

Grand Theft Auto
February 26 at 7:53 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of Linwood. The vehicle is a black, 2013 Honda Crosstour. The victim’s friend parked and locked the vehicle in the driveway at approximately 8:30 p.m. The victim went out in the morning at approximately 7:40 a.m. and saw her vehicle had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
February 26 at 7:30 p.m., police received a call reporting a female adult crawling down the street in the 200 block of East Cypress Avenue. Officers located the subject and determined she was too intoxicated to care for herself. She was arrested for public intoxication and held for sobering.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
February 27 at 12:27 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation and during the stop, determined the driver was intoxicated. The driver was arrested and taken into custody for driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was held for sobering.

Warrant/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 27 at 11:07 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 2600 block of South Mountain and contacted a suspicious person in a business parking lot. The subject was found to have a warrant for their arrest and was in possession of heroin. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody for the charges.

Suspicious Person/Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 27 at 3:22 p.m., officers responded to the report of a suspicious person in the 500 block of West Huntington. They arrived and contacted the subject, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs. It was determined that the subject was under the influence of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
February 28 at 11:15 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 600 block of Linwood. An unknown suspect smashed the window of the vehicle and took a camera that was left inside. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
February 28 at 7:41 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 600 block of South Primrose. A witness called police to report a suspect on a bike just shot out his tenant’s car window. The suspect is described as a male Black wearing a black shirt with white writing on it. Officers searched the area for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. It appears the window was damaged with a BB pellet. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 28 at 8:56 p.m., an officer was in the area of Foothill and Primrose and noticed a subject on a bicycle he knew had an outstanding arrest warrant. The officer made a traffic stop on the bicyclist and contacted the subject. A computer check confirmed the arrest warrant and the suspect was taken into custody. During a search of the suspect, the officer located a baggie containing methamphetamine in his pants pocket. The suspect was arrested and is being held pending his court appearance.

Are There Serious Problems With Monrovia Railroad Crossings?

A number of people have been complaining on various online media about the long waits at the railroad crossings, especially on Myrtle. One woman said she waited seven minutes and a man complained that the crossing gate remained down far longer than appeared to be necessary. Several people said they got tired of waiting and did a u-turn to get away from it.

- Brad Haugaard

Be a Member of Monrovia Wilderness Preserve Foundation

The City of Monrovia and the Monrovia Wilderness Preserve Foundation are currently recruiting members for the Wilderness Preserve Foundation until Wednesday, June 1, 2016. The foundation is seeking members that are eager to get involved in the community, have a passion for the Hillside Wilderness Preserve, and hold talents that will assist in the improvement of the City.

"This is a great opportunity for any Monrovia resident to take part in that will help guide resources within the city to improve our parks and hillside," says Public Services Director Tina Cherry.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Monrovia Wilderness Preserve Foundation is asked to contact Public Services Director, Tina Cherry, at (626) 256-8226, (626) 932-5544, or tcherry@ci.monrovia.ca.us.

Source: City of Monrovia Press Release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Considering a Hotel For Southwest Corner of Huntington and Myrtle

The City Council (wearing its "Successor Agency" hat) will consider at its March 1 meeting asking for qualified developers who could build a hotel at the vacant southwest corner of Myrtle and Huntington. City staff figures an office building wouldn't work at that site. Here's the agenda ( http://goo.gl/LbuhSS ) and the staff report ( http://goo.gl/q6BqkY ).

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia May Study Returning To Council-Elected Mayor

At the next Monrovia City Council meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/R1bQnz ), the council will, among other things, consider a request by City Manager Oliver Chi to form a committee to study Monrovia's directly-elected mayor system. (Other cities simply elect the council and then the council elects the mayor from among their own members, usually by rotation. Chi's request appears to be a response to Mayor Tom Adams' suggestion that the city return to this older system.) http://goo.gl/PptSQC

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at BigShrimps

Dinner last night at BigShrimps, on the north side of Colorado a half block east of Myrtle. Wasn't very hungry so I just got a lobster bisque, for $6, and an iced tea for $2.
  
- Brad Haugaard

Obituary for Monrovian Chris Nelson, Killed by Drunk Driver

A story about Chris Nelson, the Monrovia man who was killed by a drunk driver in Pasadena. http://goo.gl/kWGKYk

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian Janie Duncan Named as a 'Woman of Distinction'

Monrovian Janie Duncan will be recognized as a "woman of distinction" by Assembly Majority Floor Leader Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia. Duncan will be honored with the other women of distinction on March 3 at Holden's District Office Open House, 600 N. Rosemead Blvd. Pasadena. Holden's office writes:

"Janie Duncan is known city-wide as someone who can and will help those in need. As co-founder of Monrovia's Foothills Kitchen, Janie and her team provide meals to anyone in need every Saturday at 1:00 p.m. at the United Methodist Church. She also helps with jobs, housing, clothing and other needed items."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Fake Credit Card; Stolen Gardening Equipment; Big Rig Bonks Traffic Signal; Pickup Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 22-24. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 376 service events, resulting in 70 investigations.

Commercial Burglary/Identity Theft – Suspects Arrested
February 22 at 11:44 a.m., a business in the 500 block of West Huntington called police to report a burglary. Two female subjects walked into a business in the city of Arcadia and tried to purchase merchandise using an altered store credit card. The purchase was rejected and the females left the store. Loss prevention notified the Monrovia store in case they tried again. The same subjects made a purchase at the Monrovia location and were seen leaving the store. Officers responded to the area and located the suspects still in the shopping center. The suspects were arrested and in their possession officers found various items of identity theft, which was added to their charges.

Robbery
February 22 at 12:02 p.m., two subjects were working at a residence when they noticed a gray Toyota Tundra with paper plates pull up to their vehicle, which was loaded with equipment. The suspect removed a blower and trimmer from the back of the victim's vehicle. When the victims approached the suspect, he brandished a firearm and fled the scene. The victims went to the police station to report the incident. The suspect was described as an adult, male Hispanic, 20-30 years old, with short hair and wearing a gray long-sleeve shirt and blue jeans. An area search was conducted, but the suspect vehicle was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence/Non-Injury Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
February 22 at 6:54 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Myrtle and Olive. Two vehicles were heading southbound Myrtle and one vehicle rear-ended the other. After an investigation, one male adult driver was arrested for driving under the influence.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
February 22 at 7:35 p.m., police responded to a non-injury traffic collision at Fifth and Huntington. A truck driver from out of state was driving his big rig west on Huntington and attempted to make a right turn onto Fifth Avenue. The truck trailer sideswiped the signal light and caused minor damage to the signal.

Vandalism
February 22 at 10:11 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported at a school in the 100 block of South Canyon. Unknown suspects spray painted on the wall of the school. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
February 23 at 12:44 a.m., officers were dispatched to a vandalism incident at an apartment complex in the 300 block of South Canyon. The victim stated her front window had been broken. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
February 23 at 7:34 a.m., police responded to an injury traffic collision at Monterey and Colorado. A driver was traveling east on Colorado and failed to stop for the stop sign. The driver collided into a vehicle that was turning west onto Colorado from Monterey. The driver and passenger of the second vehicle received minor injuries. The driver who failed to stop was cited for the violation and the other parties were taken to a hospital and later released.

Grand Theft Auto
February 23 at 8:17 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 800 block of West Olive. The victim parked her vehicle in front of her residence the night before. In the morning she found her vehicle, a green, 1990 Honda Accord, was gone. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
February 23 at 4:15 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of West Huntington. The victim was inside a grocery store and when she returned to her vehicle an hour later, her white, 1986 Mazda pickup, was gone. The investigation is continuing.

Prescription Fraud
February 24 at 8:52 a.m., an incident of prescription fraud was reported at a business in the 300 block of West Huntington. A subject entered the location and presented a suspicious prescription to the attendant. A phone call to the listed doctor confirmed the prescription was, in fact, fraudulent. The suspect had already left the location before the fraud was determined. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
February 24 at 9:48 a.m., police responded to the 400 block of West Colorado on the report of a stolen vehicle. The victim parked and locked her vehicle in the alley behind her home. She went inside and did not hear anything suspicious during the night. When she returned to her vehicle in the morning, she found it had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
February 24 at 7:26 p.m., officers were dispatched to a traffic collision in the 200 block of South Madison. A driver made an unsafe turn and struck a parked vehicle. The driver had a small contusion on his face from the accident. After the conclusion of the investigation, the officer asked the driver to sign the citation for an unsafe turn and having a suspended driver's license. The driver refused to sign the citation. He was arrested and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Tour of Historic Monrovia

Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will conduct a walking tour of downtown Monrovia on Saturday, March 5, at 10 a.m. The tour lasts about two hours, and participants will walk eight blocks. $5 per person. Reservations not necessary, just meet at the SE corner of Palm and Myrtle Avenues. http://goo.gl/I9gLrc

- Brad Haugaard

Seminar on Essential Oils at Monrovia Library

Make over your Medicine Cabinet with essential oils, Monday, March 7 at 10 a.m. with host Kate Garland. At Monrovia Library. Register here: https://goo.gl/bK3cTg

Monrovia Girls Soccer Loses To Arcadia

Monrovia girls soccer loses to Arcadia, 3-0. http://goo.gl/FGcIRP

- Brad Haugaard

Monty Python Play at Monrovia High

Monty Python's Spamalot, a musical "ripped off from the motion picture, 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail.'" March 3, 4, 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets here: http://www.wildcattheater.com/

- Brad Haugaard

Cost Breakdown for Monrovia to Comply With State Environmental Regulations

Here is a breakdown, from City Manager Oliver Chi, of the cost for Monrovia to comply with the state's storm-water runoff regulations. It's not just Monrovia, by the way, lots of cities are being hit.


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Bond Rating Upgraded; Gold Line Opening Ceremony; A Mural of Books; Author Talk

In his weekly report, City Manager Oliver Chi reports...

- Standard & Poor, the bond rating agency, has upgraded Monrovia's bonds to AA-, the fourth highest rating and considerably better than the BBB- to BBB+ range the city's bonds were in before. Simply put, this means that if Monrovia needs to borrow money, it can do so at a cheaper interest rate.

- Ribbon cutting March 5 for Monrovia Gold Line Station at 11:30 a.m. for the first day of public train service. Also, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. – Music, crafts, games, booths, giveaways, food, trackless train rides. Free shuttle between Old Town Monrovia and Station Square. Noon – Live entertainment begins by the band, Person to Person.

- Artist Mike Stilkey is creating a mural in the youth section of the Library of Monrovia-area animals painted on the spines of approximately 3,000 books. The project should take about two weeks. Comment: Nice that books are still useful for something.

- On Saturday, April 16, 2016, at 2 p.m. at Monrovia Library, author Attica Locke will discuss her third novel, Pleasantville. She also writes for the TV show, Empire.

- Brad Haugaard

Should City Let Bradbury Annex Part of Monrovia?

Land Bradbury wants to annex.

Four parcels of Monrovia land (2.65 acres) are also within the jurisdiction of the Bradbury Estates Community Services District, and the City of Bradbury is wondering if it might annex that land to Bradbury. In his weekly report Chi said the city is analyzing the situation, including any financial impacts to Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

Biotech Day in Monrovia

Monrovia Biotech Day April 22, 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Mary Wilcox Youth Center (843 E Olive). Biotech opportunities in Monrovia. Activities for all ages. Sponsored by Boys and Girls Club, Lab Launch, City of Monrovia.

Monrovia Police: Almost Arson; Hit and Run; Car Chase; Beer Theft; Disneyland Ticket Scam; School Vandalism

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 18-21. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Attempted Arson
February 18 at 2:25 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of South Violet regarding an attempted arson. The victim reported he saw a former female roommate outside his residence. He watched her exit her vehicle and walk over to his vehicle. She opened the driver’s door to his vehicle and began pouring gasoline throughout the interior of his vehicle from a red gas can she was carrying. He ran outside and confronted her. As he approached, it appeared she was preparing to toss a lit cigarette into the vehicle, but she saw him and fled to her vehicle. She left the area without lighting the vehicle on fire. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
February 18 at 6:35 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of South Violet regarding a traffic collision. The victim was unloading her vehicle, which was parked on the street. An unknown vehicle traveling south on Violet struck the left rear door of the parked vehicle and fled the scene. The investigation is continuing.

Pursuit/Stolen Vehicle Recovered – Suspect Arrested
February 19 at 3:41 p.m., an officer located a stolen vehicle in the area of Myrtle and Duarte. A pursuit ensued that went from Myrtle to Huntington, east on Huntington, then south on Mountain. The suspect sideswiped a vehicle at the 210 Freeway underpass on Mountain and continued south. The suspect vehicle became blocked by traffic on Mountain at the railroad tracks. Officers blocked the suspect in and approached the vehicle. The suspect would not follow verbal commands and resisted the officers, but was eventually removed from the vehicle and taken into custody.

Warrant/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 19 at 8:45 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation at Primrose and Chestnut. The driver was found to have an outstanding warrant. During an inventory search of the vehicle prior to storing it, methamphetamine was found inside.

Traffic Stop/Evading a Police Officer
February 19 at 11:21 p.m., an officer attempted to stop a vehicle in the area of Euclid and Shamrock for a vehicle code violation. The driver fled in the vehicle, heading south on Flagstone, where the vehicle came to an abrupt stop. Both occupants then jumped out of the vehicle and fled on foot. The passenger appeared to be holding something in his waistband as he ran. A search for the suspects was conducted, but they were not found. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department helicopter assisted at the scene. The vehicle was impounded as it matched the description of a vehicle involved in a recent crime that occurred in Duarte. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft/Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
February 21 at 12:08 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 100 block of west Foothill regarding a shoplifter in custody. The suspect entered the store, concealed bottles of beer on his person, and left the store without paying. The suspect is an active gang member and was in violation of Monrovia’s gang injunction. He was arrested for shoplifting and violation of the court order.

Fraud/Scam – Suspect Arrested
February 21 at 2:15 p.m., the victim of fraud called police to report the scam. He reported an ad on Craigslist regarding tickets for sale for Disneyland. The victim said he met with the suspect and bought the tickets, only to find out that they were fraudulent. He had a friend call the suspect requesting to buy additional tickets and they agreed to meet in Monrovia. The victim asked if police could help him recover his money.

Although the first incident did not occur in Monrovia, it was similar to a Monrovia case that occurred earlier that week. An officer was dispatched to the location at the time they agreed to meet and the suspect was detained. The suspect admitted he had taken gift cards from a local grocery store and advertised on Craigslist. He admitted selling three gift cards that were never activated. Two incidents possibly occurred in Monrovia. The first incident occurred in Arcadia, and the victim was advised to file a police report with Arcadia. The suspect also had four outstanding warrants. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
February 21 at 7:05 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting suspects vandalizing a school in the 100 block of West Duarte Road. Two young male subjects were seen by witnesses spray painting a wall at the school. Officers arrived and detained two juveniles near the school. A field show up was conducted with three witnesses. All three witnesses positively identified the suspects. Both suspects were arrested for vandalism and taken into custody. They were booked and released to their parents with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Monrovia Man Killed in Car Crash

A Monrovia man was killed in a car crash with a man who has been arrested on charges of driving while under the influence. The name of the victim has not been released. http://goo.gl/iMUTYc

Update: The victim was Chris Nelson, who leaves behind a wife and four children. A memorial fund has been set up for him: https://goo.gl/CuqFkV

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Sailor Honored | Story of Franklin | Ben Hur at First Presbyterian

~ Monrovian Steven Chester won the Sailor of the Day award aboard the USS John C. Stennis. http://goo.gl/JtFgNt

~ School teacher tells the story of how she persuaded Peanuts' cartoonist Charles Shulz to include a black character, Franklin, in the famous comic strip. http://goo.gl/dRxEnl

~ On Saturday, Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church will present the classic 1925 silent movie, Ben Hur: A Tale of the Christ, accompanied by a live pipe organ score by Randy Woltz. Suggested donation is $7. For more information call 358-3297 or email David@fpcmonrovia.org. http://goo.gl/NaJaJF

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board Agenda

School board agenda for Feb. 24. Big items are agreements with the various contractors fixing Monrovia High after the arson. Fortunately, it appears most of the cost will be covered by insurance. Agenda here.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Assemblyman Wants to Control Drones To Keep Bears' Heart Rates Down

Assembly Majority Floor Leader Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, has introduced Assembly Bill 2148 to require the Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop guidelines for the use of drones over public lands managed by the department. His press release says that two years ago drones caused a stampede of bighorn sheep, and that drones have also "caused elevated heart rates in bears."

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Veranda Mediterranean


Lunch recently at Veranda Mediterranean restaurant, at Myrtle and Lime. I got the lunch buffet for $9.95 and an iced tea for $3. I liked the stuffed grape leaves and cucumber salad best and went back for seconds on those. 
  
- Brad Haugaard

A Video Ride on the Gold Line

Take a virtual (video) ride on the new Metro Gold Line train, from Pasadena to Azusa. https://goo.gl/z85pOb

- Brad Haugaard

Former Monrovia Maryknoll Sister Dies in New York

Sister Cecile Therese Burton, an educator and social worker who spent time in Monrovia starting in 1999, died after a long illness on Feb. 17, 2016 at Maryknoll Sisters Home Care in New York. She was 91 years old. She moved to Monrovia in 1999 and worked with an adult literacy program, taught piano and mentored at a local middle school to help children improve their reading skills. Source: Press release.

- Brad Haugaard

El Monte Defeats Monrovia Girl's Basketball :-(

Monrovia girls basketball loses to El Monte, 46-41. http://goo.gl/3eNnlw

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Mother With Young Child Attacked By Man With Knife

More on mother attacked by knife-wielding assailant as she arrived home at her Monrovia apartment with her two-year-old daughter. http://goo.gl/F7g725



- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Woman Stabbed - Unknown Assailant; Hitting and Running; Small Part of Honda Recovered; Car Vs. Tree

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 15-17. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 357 service events, resulting in 63 investigations.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
February 15 at 6:26 p.m., officers were dispatched to the intersection of Shamrock and Huntington regarding a hit and run collision that had just occurred. The suspect vehicle was last seen traveling north on Shamrock and is described as a newer-model, dark-colored vehicle, possibly a Camry, driven by a female subject, possibly Hispanic, in her 40's. The vehicle was not located and the investigation continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
February 15 at 7:08 p.m., a second hit and run traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Shamrock and Huntington. The victim reported being struck from behind. The suspect vehicle fled south on Shamrock and was not located. The investigation continuing.

Mail Tampering
February 16 at 9:51 a.m., an incident of mail tampering was reported in the 500 block of Cloverleaf. Various mailboxes were opened by an unknown suspect. It is unknown if any mail was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
February 16 at 9:59 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 400 block of East Foothill. The victim’s vehicle was parked to the rear area of the apartment complex. The suspect shattered the vehicles window and stole an iPad that was left inside. The investigation is continuing.

Found License Plate
February 16 at 7:06 p.m., a vehicle license plate was found in the 100 block of North Mountain Avenue in the street. A computer check revealed the license plate belonged to a Honda Accord that had been reported stolen to the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department earlier in the day. The Sheriff’s Department was notified.

Missing License Plate
February 16 at 9:07 p.m., a subject reported a Honda Accord parked on the street in the area of Mountain and Ocean View with no rear license plate. The owner of the vehicle was located and had not noticed his plate was missing. He did not know if it fell off or if it had been stolen. This was not the license plate found in the above incident.

Residential Burglary
February 16 at 9:30 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of La Casita Lane called police to report a burglary. An unknown suspect forced entry into her locked garage and stole property from inside. The investigation is continuing.

Lost/Stolen Cell Phone Recovered
February 16 at 10:03 p.m., a juvenile subject told his father that he lost his cell phone at school. The cell phone was tracked to a residence in the 400 block of Almond Avenue. Officers went to the location and eventually recovered the cell phone from a juvenile, who said he was holding it for a friend. The phone was returned to the rightful owner.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
February 16 at 2:30 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of Lotone and Heather Heights when he observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. The officer conducted a traffic stop and contacted the driver. He immediately noticed signs of intoxication. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence. The suspect was arrested and held for sobering.

Traffic Collision/Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
February 17 at 6:04 p.m., officers were dispatched to the intersection of Huntington and Myrtle regarding a solo vehicle traffic collision. The vehicle was reported to have struck a tree. The investigation revealed the driver lost control of his vehicle in the rain and struck the tree. The driver was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested for DUI. The suspect was held for a sobering period.

Domestic Violence
February 17 at 8:18 p.m., officers responded to the report of two subjects fighting in the 300 block of West Huntington. The investigation revealed the couple, who are in a dating relationship, were involved in a verbal argument that turned physical. The female sustained an abrasion to her wrist, but refused medical treatment. The suspect was not at the location. The investigation is continuing.

Attempt Murder Investigation
February 17 at approximately 11:00 p.m., a 36-year-old woman arrived at her apartment complex located in the 200 block of South Madison in Monrovia. The victim was carrying groceries and her two-year-old daughter, when she was suddenly attacked from behind by an unknown assailant armed with a knife.

The victim suffered multiple stab wounds to her face, neck, arms, and back. The victim was taken to a local area hospital, where she underwent surgery for her injuries. She is reported to be in critical condition. The child was not harmed. This crime is being actively investigated and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Monrovia Police Department.

Police To Get Training On Mental Illness; Grand Opening of Train Station; Music in Old Town; Sidewalk Survey

In his weekly update, Monrovia City Manager Oliver Chi said ...

- Police Chief Hunt has developed a new four-hour training program for police officers to help them deal with those suffering from a mental illness.

- Another celebration at the train station. At around 11:30 a.m. on March 5 the Metro train will arrive at Monrovia's Station Square, and the city will officially cut the ribbon to open the Monrovia Gold Line Station to the public.

- BMW of Monrovia is paying to extend the Saturday evening music in Old Town through this July.

- There will be a sidewalk condition survey this week in the area bordered on the north by Colorado Boulevard, the south by the 210 Freeway, and on the the east and west by the city boundaries. You'll be able to tell the workers because a lot of 'em will be riding Segways.

- Brad Haugaard

Robotics Championship Coming to Monrovia High

The Regional Robotics Championships are coming to Monrovia High School on on Feb. 27. Top teams from the Los Angeles area, including from Monrovia High, which has one of the best programs in the region, will begin competitions at 10 a.m. in the Event Center. The event is free and all are welcome.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Garden Club Hosting Water Management Speaker

Monrovia Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting on February 23, at 7 p.m., with social time and refreshments at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, 101 E. Foothill Blvd. The speaker will be Wendy Wert from the Los Angeles Sanitation District, who will speak on water management, waste water, water conservation and composting.

- Brad Haugaard

Cell Phone Tracks Suspects | Showers Tonight?

~ Monrovia victim's stolen phone helps track down suspects. http://goo.gl/QO2yaL

~ 70% chance of showers tonight. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

- Brad Haugaard

Bombing Closes Hospital Supported by Monrovia-Based World Vision

Monrovia-based Christian relief agency, World Vision, reports that bombing in northern Syria has closed a hospital it supports that specializes in maternal, newborn and children's health. Windows were shattered and the structure damaged, though no patients were hurt. http://goo.gl/rZjlAk

- Brad Haugaard

Unity Celebration Sponsored by Monrovia's Bethel AME Church

On Saturday, February 27, Bethel AME Church, Monrovia will host its second Annual Unity Celebration at the Monrovian Restaurant Banquet Room at 534 S. Myrtle Ave. Residents of Monrovia and surrounding areas are invited. Dinner tickets are $45 per person.

This event will showcase civic unity as well as honor a great embodiment of this theme, Former Mayor of Duarte, Lois Gaston, the First African American Woman to hold the position. She was named the 44th Assembly District Woman of the Year in March 2009 by Assemblyman Anthony Portantino. She has been a crisis mediator and strong community supporter for Monrovia and Duarte.

The special guest speaker will be Rev. Mark E. Whitlock, Jr. the pastor of Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Irvine. The "Unity Celebration" will conclude with a Sunday worship service at Bethel AME Church, Monrovia with guest speaker Bishop C. Garnett Henning, the 112th Elected Bishop of the AME Church (Retired), on February 28, 2016 at 3 p.m.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase dinner tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-unity-celebration-tickets-20532512297. This link is also accessible online at www.bethelmonrovia.com. Guests may also call the office to RSVP. If you have any questions or to purchase an ad, contact Bethel AME Church, Monrovia, at 930-1120 or at bethelchurchmonrovia@gmail.com.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Domestic Violence; Stolen Mail and Stolen Mail Arrests; Bicycle Stopped for Vehicle Code Violations; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 11-14. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Domestic Violence
February 11 at 1:04 p.m., a female subject came into the police department lobby to report a domestic violence incident. The father of her two children had come to her residence in the 300 block of West Walnut earlier. While there, they began to argue and he pushed and slapped her repeatedly. He left the location and she came to the police department to report the incident. The victim had visible injuries. The assigned officer contacted the male subject by telephone, but he was uncooperative and would not come to the police department or speak about the incident. The subject was entered into the law enforcement wanted person system as a possible suspect in the domestic violence incident. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
February 12 at 6:20 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of Bradbury called police to report her home had been burglarized. She left the home at 8:00 a.m. and returned at 5:30 p.m. to find the house ransacked and jewelry missing. The suspects broke a window next to the front door to gain entry. The investigation is continuing.

Missing Juvenile Located/No-Bail Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 12 at 9:19 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle at Myrtle and Longden for a vehicle code violation. A computer check of the driver revealed he was a juvenile runaway, unlicensed, and he had a no-bail warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
February 12 at 9:23 p.m., a caller reported a possible drunk driver in the area of Foothill and Alta Vista. The driver was reportedly driving down the center of the two lane roadway. An officer on patrol located the vehicle making a slow wide turn and stopped the vehicle at Fifth and Foothill for vehicle code violations. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
February 13 at 2:04 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a vehicle traveling south in the 800 block of South Myrtle. The vehicle approached the intersection of Myrtle and Chestnut and entered the left turn bay. The vehicle continued through the left turn bay and onto the wrong side of the road. The vehicle swerved to the right and into the number one lane of south bound Myrtle. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle at Myrtle and Huntington for the vehicle code violations. The driver was determined to be intoxicated. He was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Transportation and Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sales/No-Bail Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 13 at 4:15 a.m., officers responded to the area of California and Lime on the report of a motorcycle racing around the area. The officer arrived and saw the motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed on Shamrock. The driver then pulled into a gas station. The officer conducted a traffic stop for the vehicle code violation. The subject told the officer that he had warrants for his arrest. A computer check revealed two no-bail warrants. The subject then told the officer he had methamphetamine in his pocket. The subject was arrested for his warrant and for transportation and possession of narcotics for sales.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
February 13 at 4:20 p.m., officers responded to a home in the 1800 block of South Alta Vista regarding a physical altercation between a male and female subject. During an argument, the female scratched the male on his neck and body, causing visible injuries. The female suspect was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Vandalism
February 13 at 10:16 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of East Walnut reported an incident of vandalism. The victim is in the process of moving into the residence and discovered several windows and some furniture that was damaged. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 13 at 11:14 p.m., an officer stopped a bicyclist at Olive and Canyon for a vehicle code violation. A computer check of the subject revealed he had an oustanding warrant. He was arrested for the warrant.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrest
February 14 at 3:20 a.m., officers on patrol discovered a subject passed out inside a vehicle at Violet and Palm. The officers contacted the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for sobering.

Vehicle Burglary
February 15 at 7:46 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 600 block of Norumbega. The victim parked their vehicle on the street. Sometime overnight, the suspect broke the driver side window and took a faucet and some coins from inside the vehicle.

Vehicle Burglary
February 15 at 11:02 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 300 block of West Scenic. The victim’s vehicle was parked on the street. The suspect forced open a rear window to gain entry into the Cadillac Escalade and stole the two rear seats from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering
February 15 at 11:10 a.m., a resident in the 00 block of Hidden Valley put three checks in his mailbox for outgoing mail and went for a walk. When he returned approximately one hour later, he found the mail missing. He knew the mailman had not picked up the mail, because it is a holiday. The investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering
February 15 at 2:02 p.m., a resident in the 00 block of Hidden Valley reported an incident of mail tampering. The victim was expecting something in the mail that never arrived. She checked online and the package should have been delivered at an earlier date. The investigation is continuing.

Burglary/Receiving Stolen Property/Resisting Arrest/Parole Hold – Suspects Arrested
February 15 at 3:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 900 block of West Walnut on the report of a burglary that had just occurred. One of the victims was following the suspects in a vehicle. When officers arrived on scene, the suspects fled into nearby yards. Containment of the area was set up and the Foothill Air Support helicopter was requested. An officer looking for the suspects saw them hiding and they took off running again, jumping over fences and through yards with officers in pursuit. The helicopter arrived on scene and both suspects were apprehended without further incident. Based on property found with the suspects, they have been linked to the two mail tampering incidents listed above, as well as several other theft cases. The suspects were also found to be on parole and a parole hold was obtained.

Monrovia Boys Soccer Number 2 Seed

Monrovia High School boys soccer team gets number 2 seed in playoffs. http://goo.gl/G3Qn9w

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Area Partnership Conference

The 7th Annual Monrovia Area Partnership Neighborhood Conference is coming up on April 23, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Monrovia Community Center. It's free. For more information contact Ariel Tolefree-Williams at atolefree@ci.monrovia.ca.us or at 932-5563. http://goo.gl/WUZ5Fa

- Brad Haugaard

Jake's Roadhouse Expanding

Jake's Roadhouse, on Myrtle, is planning to expand into the space currently occupied by the Army-Navy store on its south side. I heard a rumor about that and a server who brought me a very nice breakfast said that is the case.

- Brad Haugaard

Hot in Monrovia, But Possible Rain Thursday | Cage-Free Chickens

~ Could get up to 90 degrees today and tomorrow, with a 70 percent chance of rain Thursday. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

~ Monrovia-based Trader Joe's has announced it is transitioning to selling only eggs from cage-free hens. Transition should be complete by 2025. http://goo.gl/amNcYW

- Brad Haugaard

Sidewalk Astronomers in Monrovia Old Town Tonight

Members of Monrovia's Old Town Sidewalk Astronomers will be in Library Park, at the corner of Myrtle and Lime Streets tonight from about 6:30 until about 9 p.m. The sidewalk astronomers let you look at the moon and planets through their telescopes.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council to Study Neighborhood Report

Before its regular meeting on Feb. 16 (agenda: http://goo.gl/dvamt6 ), the City Council will hold a study session to discuss the recently completed neighborhood study. At 5:30 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Café Jimenez


Dinner recently at CafĂ© Jimenez, on Mountain just east of the Home Depot. Got the Camarones a la Diabla (spicy shrimp) for $12.95 and an iced tea for $1.95. I asked for "hot" and they took me at my word. My nose is running a bit but it was good and filling. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Champs! | Rain Barrels | State of the City Speech

~ There was a brief mention on Facebook that the Monrovia girl's soccer team is the Rio Hondo league champion. Congrats, Ladycats!

~ Free rain barrels this Saturday at Monrovia High. Details: http://goo.gl/fWEnR5

~ Mayor Tom Adams' State of the City address is now on line if you'd like to watch: https://goo.gl/cwZhBM

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Taking Grandma's Car; Drugs; Defrauding the DMV; Man on Roof; Making a Ruckus; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 8-10. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 414 service events, resulting in 70 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto
February 8 at 9:17 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of Genoa. The vehicle is a green, 2-door, 1997 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
February 8 at 11:50 p.m., officers responded to the report of a hit and run traffic collision in the 300 block of South Shamrock. A vehicle traveling north on Shamrock struck a parked vehicle and fled the area. The suspect vehicle was possibly red or burgundy in color. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
February 9 at 2:16 a.m., the victim of a grand theft auto reported her vehicle was taken by her grandaughter, who resides with her. The suspect told her grandmother over the phone that she was in Los Angeles. The vehicle is a silver, 2011 Buick Regal. The vehicle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle system and the juvenile suspect was entered as a missing/runaway. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 9 at 2:51 a.m., a suspicous person, possibly involved in drug activity, was reported in the area of a business in the 100 block of West Foothill. Officers responded, contacted the subject, and a computer check revealed he had two misdemeanor warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and was also found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia.

Commercial Burglary
February 9 at 4:35 a.m., police received numerous calls reporting a burglary in progress at a business in the 100 block of East Huntington. The reporting parties were employees at the business location. They reported that a male suspect broke the glass to the front doors and entered the building, triggering the alarm. Officers arrived on scene and removed the employees from the location. A search of the building was conducted, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
February 9 at 6:48 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1000 block of Orange Avenue. The victim was on vacation and had left her vehicle parked at her residence. When she returned, she noticed her vehicle had been stolen. The vehicle is a white, 4- door, 2011 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.

Defrauding the DMV – Suspect Arrested
February 9 at 9:48 p.m., an officer on patrol noticed a vehicle traveling west with its emergency flashers on in the 700 block of West Huntington. The officer completed a computer check of the vehicle, which revealed the registration had been expired since 2009, but there was a 2016 registration sticker on the license plate. The officer stopped the vehicle and contacted the driver, who admitted to defrauding the DMV. The registration tab was from another vehicle he owned. The driver received a citation to appear in court on the charges and was released in the field. The vehicle was impounded for expired registration.

Trespassing/Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance/Violation of Gang Injunction Court Order – Suspect Arrested
February 9 at 11:51 p.m., police responded to a business in the 100 block of West Foothill regarding a subject observed by security personnel climbing to the roof of the location. Officers arrived and, with the assistance of a police helicopter, located the subject on the roof. The officers climbed the fire access ladder and detained the subject. A Monrovia Fire Department ladder truck was called to assist in lowering the suspect and officers from the rooftop. The subject was arrested for trespassing. He was also determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance and in violation of the gang injunction court order, which were added to his charges.

Possession of Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
February 10 at 4:03 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 900 block of South Mountain and recognized a subject riding a bicycle that was very similar to one that had been stolen the previous day. The officer stopped the bicyclist and confirmed the bike was in fact stolen. The suspect was arrested for being in possession of stolen property and taken into custody. The suspect was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
February 10 at 4:12 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 400 block of Hurstview regarding a subject causing a disturbance. The subject was banging on his neighbor’s door. The subject could not give a reason why he was causing the disturbance. He was found to have several outstanding warrants. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.

Weapons Offense
February 10 at 9:50 p.m., a victim used the ATM at a bank in the 100 block of West Foothill. He then drove west in the parking lot, toward Primrose. He stopped at a stop sign in the parking lot and a vehicle traveling east abruptly turned left in front of the victim. The suspect in other vehicle started yelling at the victim through the open passenger window. The victim could not hear what was being said, so he exited his car and approached the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect pointed a black semi-automatic firearm and threatened to shoot the victim. The suspect then fled east on Foothill out of sight.

The suspect is described as a male Hispanic in his 20's, wearing a white, short-sleeved t-shirt, dark pants, with short hair and was unshaven. He also had several tattoos on one or both of his arms. The suspect vehicle is described as a silver or gold sedan, possibly a Chevy Malibu. The victim wrote down a license plate, but it returned to a salvaged vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Possible Rain Next Week

60% chance of showers this coming Thursday. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

- Brad Haugaard

Are Monrovia City Council Members 'Puppets'?

Monrovia Council Member Alexander Blackburn said some "private interests" see council members as "simpleton puppets" swayed by "flattery and sycophantic awards." That approach, he said, is often successful and that the council needs to watch out for that. http://goo.gl/rLm8UA

- Brad Haugaard

Four Monrovia Schools Named As 'Gold Ribbon Elementary Schools'

Monrovia School Board Member Alex Zucco reports that the California Department of Education has named Bradoaks, Mayflower, Monroe and Wildrose as Gold Ribbon Elementary Schools. "And," she adds, "with all the great things happening at Plymouth, we know they won't be far behind."

- Brad Haugaard

Taxes And The Artist Workshop

Feb. 13, this Saturday, from 10 a.m. to noon, "Taxes and the Artist" Workshop at Monrovia Community Center. Details: http://goo.gl/UzSglO

- Brad Haugaard

Should Monrovia Return to Being a Non-Elected-Mayor City?

I did not get to the State of the City speech by Mayor Tom Adams the other night, but according to Facebook postings, Adams suggested the city return to the old system of just having the City Council select the mayor from among by themselves, which generally (not always) turns out to be a simple rotation.

Comment: As a former reporter I have attended many council meetings in several local cities that are roughly Monrovia's size (Arcadia, Temple City, San Marino, Alhambra, La Verne), and all these cities have (or, perhaps, had) the system Adams is proposing, and I never noticed any real difference between how they were run and how Monrovia is run. I think the elected-mayor system is really better for larger cities, but seems harmless in smaller cities. My one thought is that Monrovia should just do whichever is cheaper.

- Brad Haugaard

Free Film and Aging Resources Information

There will be a free screening "Inside Out," the 2015 Academy Award Nominated Best Animated Film from Disney Pixar, on Saturday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Monrovia Library. Light refreshments and information about aging resources. This is a multi-generational event for baby boomers, friends and family. For free tickets call 205-4308 or email movie@monroviaproviders.org. Presented by Monrovia Providers Group, Foothills Resources for the Aging. More information at http://www.monroviaproviders.org

- Brad Haugaard

Yard Sale at Monrovia's Mountainside Communion Church

This Saturday, Feb. 13, Mountainside Communion Church (at the corner of Colorado and Magnolia), will host a yard sale to help raise funds for its annual retreat. The sale will be in the church parking lot at 303 W Colorado, Monrovia CA from 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Housing Opportunity for Low Income Monrovians

San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity is seeking low-income, first-time home buyers, currently living in crowded or substandard housing conditions who are willing to contribute a minimum of 500 hours of Sweat Equity in building their home and the homes of their future neighbors.

Application forms will be available at four informational meetings at the Glendale Recreation Center, 201 E. Colorado St., Glendale, CA 91205:

● Thursday, February 18, 2016 at 7 p.m.
● Saturday, February 20, 2016 at 10 a.m.
● Thursday, February 25, 2016 at 7 p.m.
● Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 10 a.m.

There is no charge for attending. At the information meetings, individuals will learn how to apply to become a Habitat for Humanity Partner Family. City and Habitat representatives will explain all aspects of the application process. Attendees will learn about qualification guidelines and what will be expected of families chosen to become a Habitat Partner Family.

SGV Habitat has completed 37 affordable homes in Glendale and has served the community for 26 years by building and repairing affordable homes for low-income families.

For questions about qualifications, meeting dates, and SGV Habitat for Humanity, please go to www.sgvhabitat.org or contact Marty McBride, Family Services Coordinator: (626) 387-6899 x25 or familyservices@sgvhabitat.org. If you would like to discuss further outreach options, contact Lindsey Lottie, Marketing & PR Manager:  marketing@sgvhabitat.org or (626) 387-6899 x18.

Monrovia Eye Lens Company Partners With Swedish Company

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical Company, which makes implantable lenses and delivery systems for the eye, will provide Memira Holding, of Sweden with STAAR's phakic intraocular lenses as a primary and premium option for refractive eye treatment. Memira is the largest refractive eye surgery provider in Scandinavia with close to 50 clinics. http://goo.gl/yNDl9w

- Brad Haugaard

Residents Raising Funds For Second Monrovia Historic District

Residents of the 100 and 200 blocks of North Encinitas are close to submitting an application for historic district status, the second such district in Monrovia. They're trying to raise $11,153 for the application. Those who would like to contribute can do so here: http://www.gofundme.com/savingourblock

- Brad Haugaard

Park Bench Honors Monrovia Rotary Member | New Art Show

~ The Rotary Club of Monrovia has funded a park bench at Rotary Park, at California and Lime, dedicated to Bill Faith, a long-time member of the club. http://goo.gl/CkYitk

~ A new art exhibition at Saga Fine Art (110 W. Lime) features "representational art by contemporary masters." Featuring works by Lynne Fearman, Felice Hrovat, and Laura Wambsgans. Show runs from Feb. 9 - March 18. http://goo.gl/0hrvPr

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Hiding in the Bushes; Controlled Substances

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 4-7. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Park Closure Violation – Suspect Arrested
February 4 at 11:19 p.m., officers were using the services of the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter on a call and requested they check the roof of the Library in the 300 block of South Myrtle on their way out of the city. During the check, a subject was spotted in the bushes at the park. Officers responded to the park and located a subject sleeping in the bushes. They arrested the subject for being in the park during closed hours and he received a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 7 at 7:28 p.m., an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation at Myrtle and Duarte. During the investigation, the officer determined the driver was under the influence of marijuana. The driver was arrested and later released on a citation to appear in court.

Park Closure Violation/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 7 at 11:41 p.m., an officer was patrolling a park in the 600 block of South Shamrock and found a subject in the park after hours. During the investigation, the officer discovered the subject was also in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested for the charges and was later released on a citation to appear in court.

Achievement at Monrovia High, Etc.

At its next meeting (agenda here ), the Monrovia School Board will, among other things ...

- Hold a study session to discuss student achievement at Monrovia High.

- Congratulate: Clifton student, Jayden Delgado, as a recipient of the Association of California School Administrators' (ACSA's) Every Student Succeeding Award; Bradoaks Principal Aimee Dyrek as ACSA's Region XV Promising Administrator of the Year; Wild Rose Principal Stacy Ayers as the recipient of ACSA's Region XV Charter Leadership Award; and the cast and staff of "Professional Productions for the Community" for its production of Hairspray.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Girls Soccer Beats San Marino :-)

Monrovia High School girls soccer team beats San Marino 3-1. http://goo.gl/vS6qMS

- Brad Haugaard

Careful With Metallic Balloons!

With Valentine's Day coming up, Southern California Edison wants to remind everyone to hold on to their metallic balloons. Make sure they "are always tied to a weight - as required by California law - and to never release them outdoors because of the thousands of customers left without power when the metallic balloons float into power lines and other electrical equipment." http://goo.gl/kb4BqH

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Citation for Shoplifting; Wrong-Way Driver; Men and Women Fighting; Stolen Mail; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 1-3. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 346 service events, resulting in 72 investigations.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
February 1 at 10:22 a.m., loss prevention from a business in the 500 block of West Huntington phoned police to report a male subject that had left the store without paying for merchandise he had concealed. Officers arrived and detained the suspect, who admitted to the theft. The suspect was arrested and issued a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
February 1 at 2:41 p.m., a caller reported a male and female fighting in a vehicle parked in the 300 block of Genoa Street. When officers arrived, the male and female had separated. They admitted to arguing over personal matters while sitting in the vehicle. During the argument, the female had slapped the male subject twice in the face. The male subject then punched the female in the face and body. The female sustained a large contusion above her right eye and possibly a broken nose. She was taken to the hospital for treatment. The male subject was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 1 at 7:43 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1600 block of South Mountain and observed a vehicle traveling the wrong way on a one-way street. The officer stopped the vehicle for the violation. The investigation revealed the subject was driving on a suspended license and had several outstanding warrants for his arrest. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
February 1 at 10:09 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of South Myrtle on the report of a traffic collision. The occupants of the vehicle are boyfriend and girlfriend. They were involved in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation in the backseat of the vehicle. During the altercation, the vehicle rolled back and struck the curb. The male subject was determined to be the primary aggressor. He was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Traffic Collision
February 2 at 1:56 a.m., officers responded to the area of Magnolia and Cypress on a solo vehicle traffic collision. The driver was traveling south on Magnolia, made a right turn onto Cypress and lost control of her vehicle. She collided into a parked vehicle, continued on and then struck a curb, where the vehicle came to rest.

Commercial Burglary
February 2 at 2:36 a.m., police received a report of an alarm activation at a business in the 900 block of West Duarte Road. An unknown suspect threw a rock through the front glass door to gain entry. The location was ransacked, but no loss could be determined. The investigation is continuing.

Trespassing/Possession of Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
February 2 at 2:50 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of South Mountain regarding a subject found sleeping in a vacant home. Officers responded and located the subject, who was found to be in possession of stolen property. The owner of the residence desired prosecution for trespassing, and the suspect was arrested. Further investigation revealed the property he was in possession of was stolen from a business in Duarte. The suspect was identified by store clerks in a photo lineup. Additionally, the suspect was found to be on active felony parole. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Mail Theft
February 2 at 10:32 p.m., an incident of mail theft was reported in the 200 block of West Walnut. A Monrovia resident received a phone call from the Glendora Police Department reporting they had two suspects in custody that were in possession of the resident’s mail. The resident then contacted her property manager, who told her he had reported the mail theft earlier that day to the Monrovia Postal Inspector, but didn't report the theft to police. Apparently, the suspects broke into the back door of the apartment complex mailboxes and stole mail. The officer took a mail theft report from the resident and forwarded the report to the Glendora Police Department.

Dinner at Kiku Sushi


Dinner recently at Kiku Sushi, at the west end of the Huntington Oaks Shopping Center on Huntington. Got a Salmon Bowl for $16,99 and a medium draft beer for $4.99. A cozy little restaurant with nice service and good food. 
- Brad Haugaard 

Citrus College Appoints New Dean of Students

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has appointed  Dr. Maryann Tolano-Leveque as dean of students. Dr. Tolano-Leveque brings more than a decade of experience in higher education to Citrus College.  Most recently, she served as director of the Honors Program at Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC).

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Train Depot Rehab Done This Year; Park Improvements; Slight Increase in Homeless; Compatibility; Library Workings; Rain Barrels

A few items from City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly update ( http://goo.gl/o9PIyt ):

~ Overall construction work to rehab the historic Santa Fe Depot is tentatively scheduled to be completed by late-2016.

~ A community discussion of park needs include: Restrooms at Library Park and Julian Fisher Park; Fitness Courses at Lucinda Garcia, Station Square, and Grand Avenue Park. Another meeting on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 9 a.m. at Fire Station 102.

~ The homeless count indicates a "slight increase" in the homeless in Monrovia. The city counted 14 Campers / Vans / RVs, 2 Make-Shift Shelters, 7 Individuals, 1 Car, 1 Tent.

~ The city plans to present its neighborhood compatibility proposals - along with an overview of feedback received - in a series of Study Session meetings with the City Council and the Planning Commission. Details: http://goo.gl/o9PIyt

~ Behind the scenes look at secrets of the Monrovia Public Library on Monday, Feb. 8, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Library Story Room. Hosted by the MOMS Club of Monrovia. For more information call Elizabeth Schneider, Youth Services Library Supervisor, at 256-8275, or eschneider@ci.monrovia.ca.us.

~ Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District will host a free rain barrel giveaway at Monrovia High on Saturday, Feb. 13, beginning at 8 a.m. Details: http://goo.gl/o9PIyt

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Drone Scouts in Antarctica

A hand-launched drone made by Monrovia-based AeroVironment is scouting the ice shelf ahead of the Coast Guard's Polar Star, supporting critical ice-breaking mission to resupply McMurdo Station in Antarctica. http://goo.gl/9doBWI

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Fire Chief Donovan Leaving And So, Apparently, is MHS Coach Chris Stevens

Monrovia is apparently losing both its fire chief and its football coach.

Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan will be moving to be fire chief in El Segundo later this month. http://goo.gl/hc1fxU

Los Angeles News Group reporter Fred Robledo Tweets that "Monrovia coach Chris Stevens expected to leave and be named next head coach at Chino Hills."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Grand Theft Harley; Stolen Car Recovered; Bedroom Peeker; Car Window Smashing; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 28-31. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Grand Theft Auto – Motorcycle
January 28 at 3:53 p.m., a motorcycle was reported stolen from the 200 block of East Maple. The victim phoned the police to report someone had cut the lock to the door on his garage and stole his 2013 Harley Davidson. The motorcycle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle system and the investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 29 at 8:08 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Cypress on the report of a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and secured her vehicle in front of her residence in the evening. When she returned to it the next morning, she saw the passenger window had been shattered and her purse was gone. She had left her purse inside the vehicle on the front seat. The investigation is continuing.

Unlicensed Driver/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 29 at 3:27 p.m., an officer observed a female subject driving a vehicle, and he knew from previous contact that she did not have a valid driver’s license. He stopped the driver in the 600 block of West Lemon. The female admitted to having drug paraphernalia on her person. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
January 30 at 3:48 a.m., police received notification of a stolen vehicle in the 100 block of West Duarte. Police located the unoccupied vehicle parked in a business parking lot. Officers noticed two female subjects inside a fast food restaurant. The officers waited, and the two subjects eventually exited the business and walked over to the vehicle. Once the driver's door was open, the officers approached and took the subjects into custody. Both subjects accused the other of taking the vehicle, but one had an altered key in her possession. Both suspects were also found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Prowling/Peeking/Gang Injunction Violation/Resisting a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
January 30 at 6:30 p.m., officers responded to the 800 block of Bonita regarding a subject seen prowling in several yards. When officers arrived, the subject was gone. Police received several more calls reporting the subject in yards, and he was eventually located after a female resident called to report the subject peeking into her bedroom. The subject resisted officers, but was eventually taken into custody. During the investigation, officers discovered the subject was also listed on the Gang Injunction and was in violation of the court order. He was arrested and taken into custody. The subject is on probation and a hold was obtained. He was later taken to the Los Angeles County Jail.

Shoplifting/Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
January 30 at 9:28 p.m., a business in the 100 block of West Foothill called to report a subject who has been constantly trespassing in the store after being told not to return. The subject entered the store again, took various items, and left the location without paying. The subject matched the description of a person police had involvement with several times during that same week. Officers responded to his residence to determine if he was involved. When officers arrived at the residence, they spoke with the in-home caretaker who stated the subject had recently returned home with groceries. Officers detained the subject and he was positively identified. The reporting party made a citizen’s arrest for shoplifting and trespassing. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
January 31 at 12:57 p.m., an officer responded to a business parking lot in the 200 block of West Huntington regarding a vehicle burglary that had just occurred. The victim parked and locked her vehicle, but she left her purse inside the vehicle in plain view. The victim went into the business for approximately 5 minutes and returned to discover her car window smashed and her purse missing. The investigation is continuing.

Monrovia Black History Month Activities

A month of activities for Black History Month, here: http://goo.gl/y3iu2i

- Brad Haugaard

Take Two: Emergency Response Training by Monrovia Fire Department

An earlier posting on CERT had incomplete information.

CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training March 5th, 12th and 19th, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Monrovia Fire Station 102, 2055 S. Myrtle. CERT, according to FEMA, "educates individuals about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills."CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training March 5th, 12th and 19th, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Monrovia Fire Station 102, 2055 S. Myrtle. CERT, according to FEMA, "educates individuals about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills." Topics include: Disaster Preparedness, Fire Safety/Fire Suppression, Light Search & Rescue, Disaster Medical Operations, Disaster Psychology, Terrorism, CERT Organization & Incident Command System. The final day of class includes a disaster drill. You must be 18 or over and live or work in Monrovia. Class size is limited. Participants must pre-register and must complete all three class sessions to receive a certificate. To register, please email: sdobson@ci.monrovia.ca.us with your name, address, phone number, and put CERT Course Registration in the subject line.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian Arrested on Suspicion of Burglary | State of the City

~ Monrovia man arrested on suspicion of burglary in Azusa. http://goo.gl/bweXQN

~ Monrovia's State of the City address will be held on Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. at the Krikorian Theater.

- Brad Haugaard